The choices in the variety of toothbrushes are so diverse, they can take up almost the length of a whole aisle at the grocery store. According to Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist, Kourosh Maddahi, "The important thing is that you choose a soft brush and that it has round-ended bristles. This will be sturdy enough to clean the teeth and stimulate the gums, but not scrub them."

"An electric toothbrush may help those who have difficulty brushing their teeth, " Dr. Maddahi continues, "but it has not proven to clean better than a regular toothbrush. And, remember, to replace your toothbrush every two to three months, as well as after colds, to keep it in top shape and hygienic."

Toothpaste is formulated to clean and polish teeth and contains abrasives such as silica, alumina, calcium and baking soda. Too abrasive of a paste can damage teeth allowing a place for bacteria to accumulate. If a toothpaste is called anti-plaque that means that their paste has been proven to prevent gingivitis. Tartar-control toothpastes help to prevent further buildup, but won't defeat existing tartar. Tooth whitening agents may extend the brightness your teeth have after a professional cleaning.

Flossing is important and often neglected. There are many types of floss to choose from: waxed, unwaxed, flavored, ribbon, flat, etc. The new flossing implements are very handy and make flossing so much easier. The type that is used is not considered important, but flossing must be done daily.

What you eat and how long it remains in your mouth is a vital factor to dental health. Teeth are most affected by sugars, any sugar: including brown sugar and the natural sugars found in fruit and dairy products, is a tooth's worst enemy. Foods such as raisins and other dried fruits tend to stick to the teeth, enhancing the conditions for destructive acids. Starchy foods should be eaten with other foods and hard candies, breath mints and cough drops also stay in the mouth longer than other foods. Obviously, the more often you snack, the greater your threat for hosting enamel-destroying acids.

Some recent studies have found that some foods may help counter tooth decay. Research has shown that peanuts and aged cheddar, Swiss and Monterey Jack cheeses may actually inhibit or neutralize the acids that cause cavities. If you can't brush after a meal, try chewing sugarless gum, to clean off the teeth.

Regular dental checkups are required to maintain good health because decay can eat away from the tooth's surface to the nerve in the heart of the tooth in just a year. Twice a year you should have your teeth cleaned and checked by your dentist.

Eating good foods, brushing and flossing daily and regular visits to the dentist will help to avoid decay that leads to cavities and root canals.

Dr. Kourosh Maddahi, has been specializing in creating beautiful, natural smiles and superior dental health for 20 years and is located in Beverly Hills at 436 N. Roxbury Drive, Suite 202 and can be reached at 310-888-7797.